Unexpected Judges on the Game Trail
Some of the most memorable wildlife encounters aren't the ones you plan for. While driving down a dusty game trail during an afternoon safari, I spotted this Greater Blue-eared Starling perched confidently on a weathered fence post. Many birds scatter at the first sign of a vehicle approach, but this one stood its ground as we slowed to a stop.
What happened next still makes me smile. Rather than taking flight, he fixed me with that piercing yellow gaze in the image. His entire posture shifted slightly forward, those brilliant iridescent feathers catching the light as if to emphasize his displeasure. The message was clear: I had interrupted his afternoon, and he wasn't particularly pleased.
At that moment, I felt less like a wildlife photographer and more like an unwelcome intruder judged by a tiny, feathered landowner. The confrontational stare held just long enough for me to capture this portrait before he eventually deemed us unworthy of further attention and returned to scanning the savanna.
Capturing the Character
Technically speaking, this image benefited from perfect timing and positioning. I was shooting with a 600mm lens at f/6.3 to maintain sharpness on the bird while gently blurring the background. The soft, neutral tones behind him help his plumage's electric blues and turquoise stand out dramatically.
What makes this portrait special isn't just the striking colors of the Greater Blue-eared Starling—though they are remarkable—but the personality captured at that moment. Wildlife photography transcends simple documentation when it reveals something about an animal's character or behavior. The direct eye contact creates an immediate connection with viewers, who often project human emotions onto that stern expression.
The late afternoon light was diffused just enough to illuminate the intricate feather detail without harsh shadows, allowing the full spectrum of blues and greens to shine. I didn't need to move from my position in the vehicle—sometimes, the best wildlife photography happens when you stay still and let the subject become comfortable with your presence.
The Species Behind the Stare
Greater Blue-eared Starlings (Lamprotornis chalybaeus) are common across much of sub-Saharan Africa, but their commonality doesn't diminish their beauty. These birds are known for their striking iridescent plumage that shifts between blue, green, and purple depending on the light.
Many visitors to Africa don't realize how intelligent and territorial these birds can be. They're highly social, often found in pairs or small groups, and don't hesitate to stand their ground when they've claimed a good perch or feeding area. The behavior I witnessed is typical—they're confident birds that have adapted well to human presence in many safari areas.
Despite their flashy appearance, Blue-eared Starlings play critical ecological roles as insect controllers and seed dispersers. Their distinctive yellow eyes contrast with their metallic plumage, especially when they give you what photographers affectionately call "the look."
Cherishing the Unplanned Moments
This image reminds me that wildlife photography isn't always about tracking the big predators or waiting hours for specific behaviors. Sometimes, it's about appreciating the spontaneous encounters with species we might otherwise overlook.
I've returned from safaris with hundreds of images of elephants, lions, and other charismatic megafauna. Still, these unexpected encounters—a starling with attitude, a curious mongoose, or a perfectly positioned butterfly—often become favorites in my portfolio.
Have you ever had a wildlife encounter where you felt judged by your subject? In the comments below, I'd love to hear about your memorable small-wildlife moments. And if this Blue-eared Starling has caught your eye, prints are available, please get in touch with me for details.
